Wanna Be Startin' Somethin': 2-Part Choral Octavo

Mark Brymer's 2-part setting strips away none of the groove and kinetic energy that made this track a hit. The accessibility of the voicing opens this high-octane material to developing choirs while preserving the syncopated rhythms and percussive attacks that define Jackson's production style, making it genuinely fun to rehearse and perform.

Propulsive and confident, with an irrepressible forward momentum. The piece captures the defiant optimism of its source material, combining declarative melodies with tight rhythmic ensemble writing that feels alive and immediate when performed well.

Choirs seeking contemporary repertoire that excites audiences and energizes singers without condescending to either group. This works for middle school through high school ensembles ready for syncopated rhythms and a modern production aesthetic.

• Lock the syncopation early. These rhythms sit off the beat intentionally, so sing them with precision rather than pushing ahead or laying back.
• Treat the vocal percussion elements (clicks, spoken moments, rhythmic accents) as integral to the arrangement, not decorative. They drive the song forward.
• Balance energy with clarity. The piece moves fast and sits high; keep diction crisp even as the tempo climbs.
• Let the recorded accompaniment establish the groove. Your choir will lock in more effectively if you sit with the track for a full rehearsal cycle before adding your own tempo decisions.

Pair this with other contemporary pop arrangements for a concert section that connects with audiences outside traditional choral circles, or use it as an encore that leaves the concert on a high-energy note. It also serves as excellent ensemble training for singers who need to develop rhythmic independence and precision.

• Syncopated rhythm reading and accurate execution
• Maintaining pulse and precision in fast-moving material
• Balancing percussive diction with lyrical singing
• Responding to recorded accompaniment cues and grooves